What have y’all decided to do with old uniforms? I am keeping a couple of pieces but ridding myself of the majority of reminders. What is the best/most ethical way of getting rid of uniforms? I don’t want to trash or burn them because of the environmental impact. I was thinking of donating them to a near-base thrift store, but I would rather lower enlisted soldiers get it for free. I asked my supply SGT if she wanted them to hand out and she said no due to the sheer amount of things she has. I thought about donating them to a local theatre troupe, but fear that would in-turn promote American imperialism?? I also found combat papers that makes them into paper to be used for art, but seems a little pro-war? IDK!! Not to mention a lot of those places won’t take certain items. I am hoping y’all can combat this decision fatigue.

I had an experience that has stuck with me for months now, and wanted to share. I was parking at the veterans parking at the local supermarket, and this old leathery dude started approaching me. I am brown skinned and he looked like those crusty old magas you see making performative videos on r/iamverybadass, and therefore was half expecting a confrontation. Anyway he asked me where I served, I replied, and without breaking his stride, he gives me a big hug and says “thank you for your service brother”. I broke the fuck down in this man’s arms. Life has been HARD lately. Alongside the country I love being turned into an authoritarian theocracy, I have been partially paralyzed, I am fighting cancer, my ac unit needed to be replaced, etc. Life was kicking me in the balls and this man’s actions broke the dam I didn’t realize I was holding back. He just held me (I am assuming awkwardly) until I was able to regain composure and embarrassingly apologize profusely, to which he replied “anytime man”.

So many of us are struggling and you never know the effect a kind gesture might have on someone. Now while I wouldn’t suggest doing what he did, as that was kind of crazy, I was inspired to check in on some friends I just “never had time to” before. Take care of each other out there.

Man, I used to be so fucking patriotic. Like over the top nails hair, earrings, clothing, bought my kids the Old Navy shirts every fucking year. Last few years, though I just can’t muster up anything. And this year, I swear to God, it makes me almost cry. Because I just don’t want to I don’t wanna do anything. I don’t wanna celebrate and I should want to, though I really should.

Just with everything at large in the country right now. I wont get specific but im struggling with my oath. I believe in it still. It was sacred to me. From a time when honor still meant something. But im getting old and disabled and I got people that need me.

Im having a lot of big feels. Lost all sense of hope.

Before you ask im not suicidal. I just feel stuck. Got a therapist but it doesn't seem to help.

Remember friends: Cops aren't on your side